attentiveness

American  

[uh-ten-tiv-nis] / əˈtɛn tɪv nɪs /

noun

1. the ability and inclination to pay attention, as to a speaker, a task, information, events, etc..

   Candidates must demonstrate a high degree of clerical accuracy and attentiveness to detail.

2. the quality of being considerate of others and their needs; thoughtfulness; courtesy.

   Her exceptional care and attentiveness toward her patients is renowned.

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Other Word Forms

• overattentiveness noun
• unattentiveness noun

Etymology

Origin of attentiveness

First recorded in 1545–55; attentive ( def. ) + -ness ( def. )

Example Sentences

You sense this in his work ethic and what it produces, an intimacy of form that implies an almost ritualistic attentiveness to the world around him on its own terms.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 4, 2026

When I waited tables, kindness was certainly appreciated, but attentiveness mattered much more.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 3, 2026

It requires, Morrell explains, “openness toward others, reciprocity, tolerance, mutual respect, inclusion, attentiveness, cooperation and fairness.”

From Slate • Jan. 2, 2026

If you’re as diligent with your search for an adviser as you are with your attentiveness to this strategy, you’re going to be just fine.

From MarketWatch • Dec. 23, 2025

As he went on speaking and Vasudeva listened to him with a serene face, Siddhartha was more keenly aware than ever of Vasudeva’s attentiveness.

From "Siddhartha" by Hermann Hesse